B0291 - Understanding DTC B0291: Common Issues in 2015-2019 Ford F-150 and Other Models

Quick Answer

B0291 means: DTC B0291 indicates a malfunction in the airbag system, affecting deployment safety.

Fix: Check and replace faulty components Cost: $150 - $300 Time: 90-180 minutes

Can I drive with B0291? Immediate attention is required to ensure passenger safety.

Common Questions

What does B0291 mean and how does it affect my car?

DTC B0291 indicates a problem in your vehicle's airbag system. If this code is present, it means that the airbag may not deploy in the event of a crash, which can seriously compromise passenger safety. It's crucial to address this issue promptly to ensure that your airbags are functioning properly.

What are the most common causes of B0291 and how much does it cost to fix?

Common causes of B0291 include faulty airbag sensors, damaged wiring, or a malfunctioning airbag control module. Repair costs can range from $100 for wiring repairs to $600 for control module replacement.

Can I drive my car with B0291 or should I stop immediately?

It is not safe to drive your vehicle with DTC B0291. The airbag system may not work correctly, meaning you could be at risk of serious injury in an accident. It's best to get this issue checked by a professional as soon as possible.

How can I diagnose B0291 myself using GeekOBD APP?

Using the GeekOBD APP, you can connect to your vehicle's OBD2 port, read the trouble codes, and view freeze frame data. This will help you understand the conditions under which the code was set, allowing for more targeted troubleshooting.

What vehicles are most commonly affected by B0291?

DTC B0291 is commonly seen in vehicles like the 2015-2019 Ford F-150, 2016-2018 Chevrolet Silverado, and various models from Toyota and Honda. Check for any recalls or technical service bulletins (TSBs) that may address this issue.

How can I prevent B0291 from happening again?

Regular maintenance checks, including inspection of the airbag system and wiring, can help prevent B0291. Additionally, avoid any modifications that could affect the airbag system and ensure any repairs are carried out by qualified technicians.

What is B0291?

DTC B0291 is a diagnostic trouble code that indicates a malfunction in the vehicle's restraint system, specifically related to the airbag module. When this code appears, it usually means that there's a fault in the system that is crucial for passenger safety. In vehicles like the 2015-2019 Ford F-150, this code can indicate issues with the airbag sensors or wiring. The implications of this code are serious; it could mean that the airbags may not deploy in the event of an accident, which significantly increases the risk of injury. If you're seeing this code, it's important to address it promptly. The airbag system is designed to protect occupants in a crash, and any malfunction could lead to a dangerous situation. Therefore, understanding the potential symptoms, causes, and repair options for DTC B0291 is vital for maintaining vehicle safety. Always ensure that your vehicle's safety systems are functioning correctly to protect you and your passengers.

System: B - Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)

Symptoms

Common symptoms when B0291 is present:

  • The airbag warning light on the dashboard stays illuminated, indicating a fault in the system.
  • Loss of airbag functionality, meaning airbags might not deploy during a crash, posing a serious safety risk.
  • The vehicle may exhibit odd behaviors such as random warning signals or chimes related to the airbag system.
  • In some cases, the seatbelt warning light may also activate, suggesting an issue with the restraint system.
  • You might notice unusual behavior in the passenger-side airbag, such as it being inactive or deactivated when it should be active.

Possible Causes

Most common causes of B0291 (ordered by frequency):

  1. The most common cause of B0291 is a faulty airbag sensor, with a likelihood of around 40%. These sensors can fail due to wear and tear or manufacturing defects.
  2. Another frequent cause is damaged wiring or connectors in the airbag system, which can happen due to corrosion or physical damage, accounting for about 30% of cases.
  3. A third possibility is a malfunctioning airbag control module, which processes the data from the sensors. Preventive maintenance, such as regular inspections, can help catch these issues early.
  4. Less common but serious causes include a crash impact that affects the airbag system integrity, leading to code B0291. This could also indicate a need for extensive repairs.
  5. A rare but possible cause is a software glitch in the vehicle's onboard computer, which might require a software update or reset.

B0291 Repair Costs

Cost Breakdown by Repair Type

Airbag Sensor Replacement

Replacing a faulty airbag sensor is often necessary for resolving B0291.

  • Total: $150 - $300
  • Success rate: 85%
Wiring Harness Repair

Repairing or replacing damaged wiring in the airbag system.

  • Total: $100 - $200
  • Success rate: 75%
Airbag Control Module Replacement

In cases where the control module is faulty, replacement may be needed.

  • Total: $300 - $600
  • Success rate: 90%
Money-Saving Tips for B0291
  • Start with the most common and least expensive repairs first
  • Use GeekOBD APP to confirm diagnosis before replacing expensive parts
  • Consider preventive maintenance to avoid future occurrences
  • Compare prices for OEM vs aftermarket parts based on your needs
  • Address the issue promptly to prevent more expensive secondary damage

Diagnostic Steps

Professional B0291 Diagnosis Process

Follow these systematic steps to accurately diagnose B0291. Each step builds on the previous one to ensure accurate diagnosis.

Step 1: Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion in the airbag system components (5-10 minutes)

Step 1: Initial visual inspection - Check for obvious signs like damaged wiring, loose connections, or corrosion in the airbag system components (5-10 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 2: Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context

Step 2: OBD2 scan with GeekOBD APP - Retrieve all codes and freeze frame data to understand the fault context. This helps identify if there are other trouble codes (10-15 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 3: Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter to check the resistance of airbag sensors and inspect wiring continuity (20-30 minutes)

Step 3: Component testing - Use a multimeter to check the resistance of airbag sensors and inspect wiring continuity (20-30 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 4: Step 4: System function test - After any repairs, verify the operation of the airbag system and clear codes using the GeekOBD APP (10-15 minutes)

Step 4: System function test - After any repairs, verify the operation of the airbag system and clear codes using the GeekOBD APP (10-15 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.
Step 5: Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to ensure the repair was successful and the code does not return (15-20 minutes)

Step 5: Road test verification - Drive the vehicle under various conditions to ensure the repair was successful and the code does not return (15-20 minutes).

GeekOBD APP Tip: Use GeekOBD APP to monitor real-time data during this diagnostic step for accurate results and professional-grade analysis.

Important Notes

  • Always verify the repair with GeekOBD APP after completing diagnostic steps
  • Clear codes and test drive to ensure the problem is resolved
  • Address underlying causes to prevent code recurrence

Real Repair Case Studies

Case Study 1: 2018 Ford F-150 Airbag Sensor Replacement

Vehicle: 2018 Ford F-150, 50,000 miles

Problem: Customer reported that the airbag warning light was illuminated.

Diagnosis: After scanning with the GeekOBD APP, B0291 was confirmed. A visual inspection revealed a faulty airbag sensor.

Solution: Replaced the defective airbag sensor and cleared the code.

Cost: $250 (parts $150, labor $100)

Result: After the repair, the airbag light was off, and the system was functioning properly.

Case Study 2: 2017 Chevrolet Silverado Wiring Repair

Vehicle: 2017 Chevrolet Silverado, 40,000 miles

Problem: Customer complained of intermittent airbag warning light and seatbelt chime.

Diagnosis: Diagnosis revealed B0291 due to damaged wiring harness in the airbag system.

Solution: Repaired the wiring harness and reconnected all components.

Cost: $180 (parts $80, labor $100)

Result: The system was tested and confirmed to be working correctly post-repair, with no codes present.

Diagnose B0291

Use GeekOBD APP for professional diagnosis!

  • Real-time data monitoring
  • Advanced diagnostic features
  • Step-by-step repair guidance
  • Professional-grade analysis
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Code Information

Code: B0291
System: Body (Airbags, Lighting, Security, Climate Control)
Severity: HIGH
Category: Body Codes